Audi may offer retail race car

Nearly all manufacturers have race-ready versions of their vehicles for use on tracks all around the world. More often than not, these are unique vehicles that aren't available for purchase by the general public.

According to recent reports, Audi may be looking to change that trend. The company recently unveiled the TT GT4, a concept car that will reportedly be available to racing teams in the near future. Automobile Magazine, however, reports that "all the info we've seen points to a green light for production," with a rumored release date of 2012 and price tag of $160,000. There's no word on if the concept will be available in North America, but it would immediately become the highest-performing Audi available.

The GT4 is loosely based off of Audi's TT RS, which was recently greenlighted for the U.S. after fans of Audi's Facebook page requested it. However, the vehicle will be heavily modified for serious racing under track conditions, with a full cage, plastic windows and a carbon-fiber body. It will produce approximately 340 horsepower.

If released, the GT4 will be a highly-specialized vehicle for racers who want a track-ready model direct from the factory. For those who want performance without the high price tag, a used Audi might be a more affordable option.